Fried Fish Vendor Denies Using Leather Strap, Reveals Details of Heated Market Dispute
A fried fish vendor in Nonthaburi denied using a leather strap in a May 3rd market fight, claiming he used a rubber strap after years of disputes with a neighboring curry rice vendor over dust contamination and verbal abuse.
A fried fish vendor has come forward to deny using a leather strap in a violent altercation with a neighboring curry rice vendor at a market in Thon Buri, Nonthaburi province on May 3rd. The 62-year-old vendor, S. Phawothai, a former hospital employee, allegedly struck 68-year-old Nang Noi with a rubber strap, causing injuries. When interviewed on May 13th, the vendor displayed the restraining strap and explained the circumstances leading to the incident.
According to his account, on the morning of the incident, he and his wife were opening their stall and cleaning the fish vendor stand as well as the adjacent curry rice stall. When Nang Noi arrived, she began sweeping underneath the stall, sending dust flying into his fish display and cooking area. With customers present and fresh dried fish ready for sale, he became stressed about contamination. He remonstrated with Nang Noi, but she responded with verbal abuse, continuing to complain and scold for approximately ten minutes without ceasing. While he was frying and selling fish, she persisted in her complaints. Overwhelmed and at his breaking point after years of tolerating her behavior, he grabbed the rubber strap—which he regularly carried for securing items—and struck her. He expressed regret and offered to cover her medical costs.
Regarding claims that he used a leather strap, the vendor denied owning one, stating he was unfamiliar with such a tool. He has already met with police following the May 3rd incident and awaits further notification of charges. He also mentioned that the temple committee might consider separating the vendors' stalls.
His wife, Nang Thitapha, 61, corroborated his account, explaining that she and Nang Noi had exchanged words, though she clarified she had not scolded Nang Noi directly. Rather, she had been criticizing her own granddaughter for not helping her husband open the shop, leaving him to manage alone while frying fish and setting up the stall. Her concern was that he would fall behind and the fish would burn. She denied having insulted Nang Noi. However, Nang Noi continued complaining incessantly. Even when the vendor's daughter asked her to stop, she persisted in her tirade until the vendor's patience finally broke.
